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27 July 2017

Suitcase. Relaxation In Port Douglas - Niramaya

I find it hard to relax. I’ve been blessed [or some might say cursed] with one of those minds that just never stops. I’ve tried meditation and yoga… but whilst I’m supposed to be breathing deep and clearing my head, my mind always seems to trail off on its own – deep breath, ooh what’s that smell? Incense? Perhaps Sandlewood. It’s lovely. I really must buy more scented candles for home, particularly before my friends come for dinner on Saturday. Speaking of, I need to do the grocery shopping. Now, what will I make for dessert?…

You get the picture. Relaxing just isn’t a word in my vocabulary. However, I will say, Port Douglas got me about as close as I could get to a textbook representation of calm and tranquillity. There’s something special about waking up to the sound of the waves. Walking amongst the palm trees. The sand between your toes on daily beach walks. It’s a fantastic place to unwind.

And what better way to add to my taste of tranquillity, than with a massage treatment. Prior to my visit I did plenty of research as to where was the best. The resounding answer always seemed to be Niramaya. Drawn from an Aboriginal word meaning ‘at one with nature’, Niramaya is a wellness retreat unlike most others. Away from the hustle and bustle of town it features its own commune with long winding paths and luscious tropical gardens. Exactly the right place to stop and take a breath.

On my final day in town, I booked myself in for the Golden Dreaming treatment – a relaxation massage and Dr Rose facial. It’s very rare that I’ll do something like this. In fact I think I can count on one hand the amount of massages I’ve had in my life, but that made this one all the more special. Niramaya’s treatment rooms aren’t dark and closed off, instead they feature a wall of windows looking out onto the gardens where you can hear all the sounds of nature.

As well as standard massage and facial treatments, they also offer romance packages complete with champagne and bubble bath, as well as vichy showers. If you’re in town and in need of some relaxation and rejuvenation, then be sure to make a booking.

My week back in the hubbub of Melbourne has certainly been a change of pace from the tropics but I’m pleased to say I’m still hanging onto my zen. Just.